Arrested by police: ESTA vs US visa
For the US visa application process, they ask for arrests. I had an encounter with the police when I was in my very early teens and not sure if I was formally arrested - I certainly wasn't charged with anything.
Do I need to declare this given I have had several ESTAs in the past without any problems?
Also, if they do count it as an arrest, will this mean I won't be eligible for ESTAs in the future?
Best Answer
Do I need to declare this given I have had several ESTAs in the past without any problems?
Technically you might possibly already have violated US law by not declaring it. As you can testify, however, the US won't know about your case unless you run your mouth, meaning it will be safe for you to keep visiting visa-free.
Realistically speaking, honesty is not always the best solution, and in this case would only serve to trap you in a web which could be a hell to get out of. This is a prime example of just that
So indeed, technically you might need to get visas for the rest of your life and declare your past in the form. In practice, though, you can keep going as usual and simply make sure not to spend too much time within short periods in the US.
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Can you get a visa for America if you have been arrested?
Under US Immigration law, if you have been arrested at any time, you are required to declare the arrest when applying for a visa. If the arrest resulted in a conviction, you may be permanently ineligible to receive a visa.Can ESTA see criminal record?
You should clarify all your doubts and try to be on the safe side. This is because you will not be guaranteed entry into the US even if your ESTA is approved. You may pass the ESTA criminal record check, but the border patrol can still access your criminal history and deny you entry.Getting a US Visa With A Criminal Record
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